Montefiascone sits at the highest point of the volcanic ridge that encircles the lake. On clear days, there are far reaching views over the lake towards the sea and, in the other direction, the Umbrian hills. The town’s cathedral has a majestic eight-sided dome, which is the third largest in Italy (after St Peter’s in Rome and Santa Maria del Fiore in Florence). Below the town are the vineyards that produce the famous , Est!Est!!Est!!! wine, of which the town is justifiably proud.
On the southern banks, Capodimonte occupies a picturesque setting on a peninsula that juts out into the lake. It is dominated by the imposing 16th century Rocca Farnese, an impressive walled castle. There is a beach here, and a harbour from where you can hire boats or take a boat trip on the lake. Just up the road is the typical fishing village of Marta where there is also a pleasant natural beach and some good fish restaurants.
Set back from the western shore, Valentano is a typical medieval town with buildings made of tufo, the local volcanic rock. There are some particularly beautiful views over the lake whilst driving from Valentano towards Laterna and Gradoli. In Gradoli, you could stop at the Palazzo Farnese, with its museum of costumes, or at one of the surrounding vineyards and olive groves which produce excellent wines and olive oil.